PEG400DL (Polyethylene Glycol Dilaurate) is a nonionic surfactant prepared by the esterification reaction of polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG 400) and lauric acid (dodecanoic acid). Its full chemical name is "polyethylene glycol (400) dilaurate", with CAS number 9005-02-1.
From a molecular structure perspective, the main body of PEG400DL is a polyethylene glycol chain segment, with each end esterified with lauric acid (a C12 saturated fatty acid) to form a diester structure. Since the esterification reaction of industrial-grade products is not completely selective, the actual product is a mixture of monoesters and diesters, with the dilaurate being the main active component. The PEG chain provides hydrophilicity, while the lauric acid fatty chain provides lipophilicity. This amphiphilic structure gives the product excellent emulsifying, solubilizing, and dispersing properties.
The product appears as a light yellow to yellow liquid. It is a non-hazardous substance with a flash point greater than 250°C, very low acute oral toxicity (rat LD50 > 5,000 mg/kg), non-irritating to the skin, and readily biodegradable (OECD 301F, >60% degradation in 28 days). It is a green surfactant with excellent safety performance.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | PEG400DL / Polyethylene Glycol Dilaurate |
| CAS Number | 9005-02-1 |
| Chemical Name | Polyethylene glycol (400) dilaurate |
| Main Components | Esterification product of PEG 400 and lauric acid (mixture of monoester/diester) |
| Product Type | Nonionic surfactant |
| Appearance | Light yellow to yellow liquid (clear to slightly turbid) |
| Hydrophilic Group | Polyethylene glycol chain (PEG 400) |
| Hydrophobic Group | Lauric acid fatty chain (C12 saturated fatty acid) |
| Flash Point (Closed Cup) | > 250 °C |
| Acute Oral Toxicity LD50 | > 5,000 mg/kg (rat) |
| Biodegradability | Readily biodegradable (OECD 301F, 28-day > 60%) |
Based on its molecular structure constructed with PEG 400 and lauric acid, PEG400DL has excellent applicability in the following fields:
This product may become turbid or solidify at low temperatures (below 5°C), which is a normal physical change and does not affect product quality. After returning to room temperature, stir slowly and evenly before use. It is recommended to store at temperatures between 5°C and 40°C, keep the container tightly sealed, and avoid strong oxidizers, strong bases, strong acids, and open flames. Due to its certain hygroscopicity, the container should be sealed promptly after opening to prevent moisture absorption or contamination.